What Do I Gift My Nanny Family for the Holidays?

Before we dive in, let’s clear up some industry lingo you’ll see in this post:

NF: Nanny Family | NK: Nanny Kid | MB: Mom Boss | DB: Dad Boss

TL;DR: The Nanny’s Holiday Gift Cheat Sheet

Short on time? Here’s the quick list of thoughtful, low-cost ways to show your NF some love this year:

• The Big Winner: A photo album or scrapbook of the NKs from the past year.

• Kid-Made: Hand-painted ornaments or a framed "masterpiece" from your NK.

• Theme Boxes: A coffee basket for MB/DB or a "Movie Night" box for the whole NF.

• The Gift of Time: A "ticket" for a special one-on-one outing with each NK.

• Keep it Simple: A heartfelt, handwritten card is often the most appreciated gesture!

A Personal Note from Rachel Tepley, CEO & Founder of Nurturing Nannies

In my years of nannying, I’ve done a little bit of everything, from elaborate scrapbooks (my personal favorite) or photo albums to a simple, heartfelt card. I’ve found that my desire to give often reflects the "vibe" of the workplace. When a Nanny Family makes me feel like a true extension of the family rather than just "the help," I naturally want to go the extra mile. Our job is very focused on serving others after all :) If you’re in a spot where things feel strictly professional, don't feel guilty! A simple card or a small craft done with your nanny kid(s) is more than enough. Gift from the heart, but only if your heart is in it.

The holiday season is here! As a nanny, you spend your days (and probably some of your nights) as a core part of a household. When December rolls around, you might be wondering: "What should I get my NF? Do I just get something for the NK's or the parents as well? What does everyone else do?!

First, let’s take the pressure off: Most families do not expect a gift from their nanny. I repeat, they do not expect a gift from their nanny. Your hard work and the love you give the NKs is the best gift they receive all year. However, if you have a great relationship with your MB and DB and want to show some appreciation, you don't need to break the bank.

Focus on homemade, low-cost, and sentimental gifts/card that celebrate your unique bond with the family.

Idea #1: The Ultimate Keepsake: A "Year of Memories" Photo Album

If you’ve been with your NF for a while, you likely have a phone full of photos (I know I do) that the parents may or may not have seen. A photo album or scrapbook is probably the #1 gift most MBs and DBs cherish. Especially since no one actually prints off pictures these days!

• Make it a tradition: Start a simple scrapbook that you add 5–10 pages to every year (this could be for birthdays or big life events, i.e. fist steps, losing their first tooth, first day of school, etc).

• Involve the NKs: Let the kids pick out stickers or "write" (or scribble!) captions for the photos.

• The "Secret" Stash: Use those candid, messy-face, park-day photos that professional photographers never catch. These are the ones parents love most.

  
  

Idea #2: Gifts from the NKs (Homemade with Love)

Parents usually value something their child had a hand in making over anything store-bought.

• Hand-Painted Ornaments: Grab some plain ceramic or wooden ornaments from a craft store (the dollar store has quite the collection now). Help your NKs paint them or add their handprints (or both!).

• Framed "Masterpieces": Take a piece of art the NK is particularly proud of and put it in a nice frame. It’s an instant upgrade from the fridge door!

• The "Coupon Book": Help the NKs create a book of favors for MB and DB, like "One extra big hug," "Picking up my toys without being asked," or "A 10-minute quiet time."
  

Idea #3: Choosing a Practical Gift for Nanny Family Members (MB & DB)

If you want to give a little something to the parents specifically, think about their daily "vices" or hobbies.

• The Caffeine Fix: Does your MB live on lattes? A small coffee-themed basket with a bag of local beans (or her favorite kind) and a cute mug is a thoughtful, practical win.

• Family Movie Night: Put together a box with microwave popcorn, some classic candy, and a $10 streaming gift card. It’s a low-cost way to give the whole NF a fun Friday night.

• Relaxation Station: If DB loves to cook or MB loves a spa day, a nice artisanal salt rub or a high-quality candle shows you notice what they enjoy.

  
  

Idea #4: One-on-One "Experience" Gifts

If you want to do something special for the NKs without buying more "stuff" for the playroom, give them the gift of a special memory.

• The "Special Day" Card: Give each NK a "ticket" for a one-on-one outing with you. Like a trip to the zoo, a fancy hot chocolate date, or an extra hour at their favorite park. Do this for each NK separately so they really get that one-on-one attention they crave.

• The Gift of Free Time: Sometimes, the best gift for an NF is an offer to stay two hours late one Friday so MB and DB can have a quiet dinner, or coming in an hour early so they can sleep in. (Only offer this if you truly feel comfortable gifting your time!)

Final Thoughts: It’s the Connection That Counts

At the end of the day, being a nanny is one of the most personal yet professional roles out there. Whether you decide to go all-out on a scrapbook or simply help the NKs scribble on a card, remember that your value to the NF isn't measured in a gift box. It’s measured in the safety, laughter, and care you provide every single day.

If you’re feeling a little extra holiday stress, take a breath! Your MB and DB know that you are a vital part of their team, and the best thing you can give them is a happy, supported NK.

What do you think?

We’d love to hear from you! What is the favorite gift you’ve ever given (or received) from a NF? Does your family treat you like "the help" or like one of the crew? Drop a comment below and let’s chat!

Ready for more Nanny Life tips?

• Check out our other guide: The Nanny Holiday Gift Guide for Parents

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• Helpful Nanny FB Groups To Join: MN Nannies Only FB Group (if you're in Minnesota), The Minnesota Nanny Network FB Group (if you're in Minnesota), Sitters and Nannies of Minnesota (if you're in Minnesota), Nanny Heartspace, and The Nanny Breakroom

• Make sure to check out: The Twin Cities Nanny Education Collective. This organization is run by a group of local nannies who volunteer their time to help other nannies in the industry!

Happy Holidays to all the hardworking nannies out there! We see you and appreciate you, you ARE making a difference :)